| SKUAST agrometeorology section empowers farmers with awareness, inputs | | |  Early Times Report
JAMMU, Aug 18: The Agrometeorology Section of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-J) took a proactive step towards promoting sustainable agriculture and enhancing the socio-economic status of small and marginal farmers. Under the leadership of Honorable Vice Chancellor Dr. B.N. Tripathi and the guidance of Prof. R.K. Samnotra, Director of Research at SKUAST-Jammu, the section organized a "Farmer Awareness cum Input Distribution Programme" at village Bhadwal in Block-Vijaypur, District-Samba on August 18, 2023, as part of the Strategic Component of the All India Coordinated Research Project on Agrometeorology (AICRPAM).
The primary objective of the event was to raise awareness about the impact of climate change on agriculture and to provide farmers with tools to mitigate its effects. More than 150 male and female farmers participated in the event.
Dr. Mahender Singh, Chief Scientist and Incharge of AICRPAM, highlighted the evidence of climate change and its challenges for agriculture in the region. He encouraged farmers to utilize weather and climate-based agro-advisories issued by the Agrometeorology Section of SKUAST-Jammu to optimize resource use and reduce input costs. He also emphasized the adoption of Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) to enhance productivity and minimize risks associated with climate variability. As part of the programme, he distributed 300 fruit plants (Mango and Lemon) to the participating farmers.
Dr. B.K. Sinha, Associate Professor of Plant Physiology at SKUAST-Jammu, discussed the management of the alternate bearing problem of Mango in Jammu and Kashmir. He elaborated on the technology developed by SKUAST-Jammu to manage aphid problems through the application of bioregulators in combination with proper irrigation and 25% additional fertilizers.
Dr. Vijay Bahadur, Chief Scientist of Plant Pathology, provided insights into managing insects and pests that cause substantial damage to agriculture and horticulture crops. He introduced farmers to location-specific integrated/composite farming systems aimed at enhancing productivity and making the farm sector more productive, sustainable, remunerative, and climate resilient.
Dr. Reena, Chief Scientist of Entomology at ACRA, Rakh Dhiansar, discussed bio-intensive integrated pest management and raised awareness about the adverse effects of chemical pesticide use. She also demonstrated the use of pheromone traps for monitoring and mass trapping of insect pests in various crops, promoting an economic, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly approach.
Dr. Vijay Kumar, Incharge of RRSS Raya, highlighted the importance of soil testing and the nutrient requirements of fruit plants based on their age. He encouraged farmers to engage in more plantation for the betterment of the environment. Dr. Charu Sharma, YP-II of the AICRPAM-NICRA project, urged the farming community to embrace modern technologies like agro-advisory services and mechanized farming systems to improve their livelihoods.
The event received participation from Mrs. Tejinder Kour (Sarpanch), Man Singh (Lambadar), and Mr. Dharamvir (AO, Agrometeorology Section), along with a diverse group of farmers. Dr. Monika Banotra, SRF of the FASAL Project, extended the vote of thanks and appreciated the active involvement of woman farmers. This event exemplifies SKUAST-Jammu's commitment to promoting sustainable agricultural practices and empowering farmers with the necessary knowledge and resources. |
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